Washington, D.C. Programs

Several partner programs offered through Clemson University combine coursework, an internship and a residential living experience in Washington, D.C. These programs, which are offered fall, spring and summer semesters, are open to all majors. This is an excellent opportunity to transition from classroom theory to real-world experience. For additional information, contact the Center for Career and Professional Development, Suite 316, Hendrix Student Center, 864-656-6000.

This preeminent program brings undergraduate students, from across the country and the world, to the nation's capital for first-hand experience and contact with political, business and community leaders. During the semester, you will have the opportunity to intern in a government, private or nonprofit office, attend weekly meetings with top individuals in your field of study, opt to do research or take an elective class in your field of interest and earn transferable college credit. The programs of study include: American Politics and Policy, Foreign Policy, Global Economics and Business, International Environment and Development, International Law and Organizations, Islam and World Affairs, Journalism and New Media, Justice and Law, Peace and Conflict Resolution, and Transforming Communities and Public Policy.

Designed for undergraduate students interested in U.S. politics, American government or journalism, Capital Semester serves as a great way to kick-off your career in politics, journalism, lobbying, government or the nonprofit sector, as well as print or broadcast journalism. Sponsored by The Fund for American Studies, the program gives students the opportunity to live in the nation’s capital! Students live in on-campus housing at George Washington University or in furnished apartments in the Capitol Hill neighborhood. Each student takes six to nine credit hours in courses at George Mason University in addition to interning 30-35 hours per week. Students also have the opportunity to enroll in our mentor program, attend site briefings, visit D.C. landmarks, sit in on professional development seminars, and meet top experts in their field, including: Capitol Hill offices, federal agencies, international organizations, public policy groups, think tanks, lobbying firms, nonprofit organizations and media outlets. During the program, students enroll in the following three courses: Theories of Constitutional Interpretation, Economics and Public Policy Issues and Internship Seminar.

Honors students and other outstanding students (GPA 3.5 or higher) are encouraged to apply for the South Carolina Washington Semester Program, offered through the University of South Carolina. This program, which is open to all majors, allows you to gain the invaluable experience of making our nation’s capital your classroom. Washington Semester Program Fellows work full-time in Washington, D.C., and take evening classes which stress experiential, hands-on learning. The classes include: Honors Fellowship, the internship, Contemporary Washington Issues and Experiencing Theatre in Washington, D.C. The offices of the six South Carolina representatives and two senators provide the main internship placements. Other assignments have included the U.S. Supreme Court, The White House, The Institute of Peace, CNN’s The Situation Room, The Department of Education, The National Organization for Women, The House Subcommittee for Africa and Global Health. The full-time internship plus two classes provide transferable credit in either the fall or spring semester.